Riders Revealed Ahead of Special Team Competition in Valkenswaard

The biggest names in show jumping will be competing in a thrilling team competition this Friday evening in Valkenswaard.

Star riders including Ludger Beerbaum, Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, Eric Lamaze, Kevin Staut, Edwina Tops-Alexander, Sheikh Ali Bin Khalid Al Thani, Lauren Hough, Maikel van der Vleuten, Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, Doda de Miranda and Gregory Wathelet will be in action in the 1.55m class.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Longines Global Champions Tour, at the circuit’s home base, the special €200,000 competition will take place under floodlights at the stunning new Tops International Arena.

A spectacular opening show on Friday will launch a dazzling evening of sport and entertainment in front of spectators and international VIP guests.

Almost 50 world class riders have so far confirmed their wish to be entered into the draw for the team competition format, which will see 15 teams consisting of two riders make up the grid for this exciting new round. A maximum of 30 riders will be randomly selected and paired up in a special draw ahead of the Friday event, which will be held over two rounds against the clock.

It will all be part of the unique four-day event from 13th – 16th August for the 12th leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour 2015 series.

Ahead of the team event, Friday evening will see a stunning sound and visual show with performances by local 11-year-old singing sensation Amira Willighagen and a dramatic choreographed opening ceremony featuring a 30-strong choir, orchestra, dancers and special animations. Families will have fantastic views of the thrilling show from the new grandstands and there will be entertainment in the smart new Place de Concours after the team competition.

On Saturday 28 out of the world’s top 30 riders and horses in the world will once more take centre stage in the stunning grass arena for the €300,000 Longines Global Champions Tour of Valkenswaard Grand Prix. The high stakes battle for the 2015 championship crown will see World No1 Scott Brash (GBR) defending his 28-point lead over nearest rival Luciana Diniz (POR).

A full rider list for the team competition will be announced later this week. For further information on the Longines Global Champions Tour of Valkenswaard event and a full show schedule, please click here.